> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/570535-principal-engineer-airborne-hardware](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/570535-principal-engineer-airborne-hardware). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Engineer - Airborne Hardware - **Company:** GREAT RIVER TECHNOLOGY INCORPORATED - **Location:** Phoenix, AZ, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $130,000.0 - $200,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Data Analysis, Systems Engineering, Automation of Tests, Network Analysis, Computer Engineering, Electronic Design Automation, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), Hardware Design, Python (Programming Language), Schematic Capture, Signal Integrity, Software Engineering, Software Requirements Analysis, VHSIC Hardware Description Language (VHDL), Video Editing, Vivado, Diagnostic Tools, Scripting, Fpga Hardware, ModelSim, Hardware Infrastructure - **Published:** June 18, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=bcc05497194478ef ## About the Role Do you have experience in VHDL?, Do you have a Master's degree?, * Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. * 10+ years of progressive experience in hardware design and development within the aerospace or defense industry. * Extensive experience with VHDL for complex FPGA development in aerospace applications. * Proven ability to lead technical projects and mentor engineering teams. * Strong understanding of digital circuit design principles, high-speed digital interfaces, and signal integrity. * Proficiency with electronic design automation (EDA) tools for schematic capture, simulation (e.g., ModelSim/QuestaSim, Vivado Simulator), and FPGA development (e.g., Xilinx, Vivado). * Experience with test equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers. * Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills. * Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, collaborative, and highly regulated environment. Preferred Qualifications: * Experience with other aerospace data bus standards. * Experience with Python or other scripting languages for test automation and data analysis. ## Description * ARINC 818 Expertise: * Serve as the primary technical authority for all aspects of ARINC 818 design, including Fibre Channel protocols, video formats, timing, and link integrity. * Lead the architectural definition, detailed design, and implementation of ARINC 818 interfaces for advanced avionics systems. * Develop and execute comprehensive test plans and procedures for ARINC 818 compliance, robustness, and performance validation, often leveraging custom test rigs and advanced instrumentation. * Pioneer and refine simulation methodologies for ARINC 818 links, including model development, analysis of signal integrity, and performance prediction in complex system environments. * VHDL Development & FPGA Design: * Design, develop, and verify complex VHDL code for high-performance FPGAs (e.g., Xilinx) used in mission-critical aerospace applications. * Expertise in FPGA architecture, floor planning, timing closure, synthesis, and place and route optimization for challenging aerospace requirements. * Implement digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms and video processing pipelines within FPGAs. * Develop comprehensive verification environments using VHDL, UVM, or other appropriate methodologies to ensure design integrity and functional correctness. * Hardware Design Leadership: * Lead the full lifecycle hardware development for airborne electronic systems, from requirements definition and conceptual design through detailed design, integration, verification, and production support. * Conduct in-depth analysis of power consumption, component stress, worst-case tolerances, and reliability for critical hardware components. * Collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams, including Systems Engineering, Software Development, and Manufacturing, to ensure seamless integration and optimal system performance. * Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior and mid-level hardware engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement. * Certification & Compliance: * Deep understanding and proven experience with aerospace certification standards. * Contribute to the generation and review of airworthiness documentation, including hardware design plans, technical requirements, functional specifications, design specifications, qualification test plans and reports. * Ensure designs adhere to industry best practices, internal standards, and regulatory requirements. * Problem Solving & Innovation: * Identify, diagnose, and resolve complex hardware issues, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and methodologies. * Stay abreast of emerging technologies, industry trends, and research in digital video, high-speed interfaces, and FPGA technology to drive innovation. * Propose and implement design improvements for existing products, focusing on quality, cost reduction, and component obsolescence management. ## Related Videos - [JavaScript? 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